Blues ponder Mateja appeal

Chelsea were today considering whether to launch an appeal against Mateja Kezman's three-match domestic ban handed out by the FA following his sending off against Roma during last week's friendly in America.

Chelsea were today considering whether to launch an appeal against Mateja Kezman's three-match domestic ban handed out by the FA following his sending off against Roma during last week's friendly in America.

The suspension followed the striker's dismissal for an altercation with Olivier Dacourt after a needless hack by the former Leeds midfielder on Arjen Robben during the ChampionsWorld series match in Pittsburgh.

It is due to start on August 17 and rule Kezman out of fixtures against Birmingham, Crystal Palace and Southampton. He would, though, be available for the opening game of the new Premiership season against Man U.

Chelsea believed because Kezman sat out the next match of their tour against AC Milan, the striker had served his relevant punishment.

The FA have, under FIFA regulations, jurisdiction over disciplinary matters involving English clubs playing overseas in friendlies.

An FA statement read: "Pre-season friendlies are not subject to the fast-track system to be introduced for competitive matches this season, and as a result the suspension starts 14 days on from receipt of the official report."

Chelsea are entitled to lodge an appeal for wrongful dismissal, which must be done within the next 14 days.